The vessel wall has many important functions in haemostasis. In general, endothelial injury seems to play a significant role in pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. This overview tries to show the basic rules and connections in contemporary knowledge of pathogenesis, risk factors, diagnosis and treatment of chronic endothelial injury. We have also mentioned our own experience in this field of medicine.

        Key words: endothelial injury, atherosclerosis, acute coronary syndromes